What To Do When Your Plans Get Rained Out in Western New York

Here is a typical trajectory of me trying to make plans with a friend I haven’t seen in a while: 

One of us sends a text saying “I miss you! We should hang out soon!” Then wait a week for a response. When one finally responds, we check our calendars and make a date a month from now. Then one of us gets called into work that day and has to reschedule. Then one of us gets COVID and has to reschedule. Then the other one gets COVID and has to reschedule. THEN one of the kids gets sick (not COIVD thankfully), but they need to stay home from school. 

Then, the date is finally here, and you’re ready to grab those Spot coffees and take that hike in Delaware Park…

And then. It rains.

I can’t take it anymore! I’m refusing to let summer rain showers ruin my few-and-far-between plans with my loved ones, and neither should you.

Here are some things you can do when Mother Nature tries to (literally) rain on your parade...

Eastern Hills Mall

It's coming back, people! Local shopping at its best, plus lunch at Duff's? Win. Win. 

Dave & Busters

Bring the kids! Or don’t. Whoever wins PacMan buys dinner.

Buffalo Botanical Gardens 

Who says you can’t get your nature fix just because it’s raining?

Local Craft Breweries 

Whether it’s Hamburg Brewing, Fatty Beer Co., Froth Brewing Co., or the dozens of other amazing breweries in Western New York - all are gorgeous, and all are guaranteed good time. 

Buffalo Museum of Science

Because the Antarctic Dinosaurs exhibit. That’s why. 

Albright-Knox Art Gallery

When this beautiful space opens back up again, take in all of the gorgeous works of art, and also make your own work of art with an Instagram-worthy photo with your bestie on the front steps. 

Buffalo RiverWorks

Get some shelter while still enjoying the scenic waterfront views. Oh, and did I mention Shaq (yes that Shaq) is DJing there later this month? 

Go to the Movies

Between Top Gun: Maverick, Jurassic World Dominion, Lightyear, and the best choice of all - Downton Abbey: A New Era, there are tons of choices for you and your buddy to stay dry and gorge on popcorn. 

Go to the Casinos

Go to a concert or comedy show! Get dinner! Throw all of your money into the Wheel Of Fortune slots! The ideas are endless. 

Go to a Comedy Show

Local venues like Helium always have someone new and funny to LOL to. 

Go to your Local Library 

My friends literally laugh at me when I suggest this, but hear me out! When you’re planning a day out with the kids-in-tow, check out the Erie County library website to see if there are any fun indoor events the whole family can enjoy. 

What’s your favorite way to spend a rainy day in Western New York?